Sunday, July 19, 2015

What's In My Hospital Bag?


The day of birth is slowly creeping up on me, and I'm feeling overwhelmed with excitement, anxiety and nervousness. My hospital recently sent me a cute little package, with a list of things I should pack and bring with me to the hospital, so I thought I'd share them with you!

When do you pack? To be honest, it's entirely up to you. It may also depend on your pregnancy and your circumstances. You may have been told your baby could possibly come early, you may also want to pack earlier if you are having twins or you can leave it to the last minute if you are booked in for a caesarian.. just speak with your obstetrician/midwife to see what's best for you.
For a normal pregnancy, I'd say any time from 34 weeks is fine. But if it makes you feel more comfortable knowing that little bag is sitting in the corner ready for a quick pick up - then pack whenever you want!

Mums Bag:
Loose clothing for every day. Tshirts, button down shirts, trackies, whatever makes you comfortable. Go with darker colours, there may be some stains & leaks that you don't want to see.
Night gowns/button down pjs 3-4
Dressing Gown
Slippers/Thongs
Socks

Maternity Bras 1-2, even if you aren't planning on breastfeeding, you will be very tender after birth and these will help ease the pain
Granny Undies or Disposable Undies. I always overpack underwear, so I just say, bring them all! If you are having a caesarian, you may find high waisted cotton nickers to be much more comfortable as they won't rub your wound.
Toiletries Hairbrush, toothbrush, dental floss, toothpaste, shampoo & conditioner, makeup (if you're keen!), deodorant, moisturiser, makeup wipes, cleanser, cotton buds, hair ties and lip balm. Everything that makes you feel human again.
Nursing Pads
Maternity Pads
Baby wipes 
These will help you to feel a little more fresh if you can't get up to have a shower just yet
Nipple Cream Hot/Cold Gel Packs & Witch Hazel Pads
Any Medications/Glasses
Medicare Card
Health Fund Card - health insurance details
Blood Group Card
ID & hospital paper work
Mobile Phone Charger

Snacks! (fibre rich) (as if I would pack a bag without food?)
SRC recovery shorts (unless you are having a c-section)
Certificate of Installation for car seat
Notepad & pen -
and squeeze out all the information you can from the nurses to write down!
Camera
Baby book

Baby Bag:
Six/Eight onesies/sleepsuits
Six/Eight cotton singlets
Muslin Cloths/Swaddles
Two/Four pairs mittens and booties
Two/Four beanies/hats
Baby bath soap
Baby wipes
Baby Blanket
Nappies (check to see if your hospital supplies them)
Pacifier
For twins - increase everything by half.

Alternatively - a great baby shower gift or gift to yourself is the Bundle Bags!
These are amazing pre-packed maternity bags for Mum and for baby. They are 100% certified organic, and really beautiful.

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